Man Indicted For Threatening AC Gambler With Box Cutter

Imagine sitting at your favorite slot machine in Atlantic City when some idiot walks up behind you and threatens you by holding a knife blade to your neck.

It reportedly happened at an Atlantic City casino last December, and now a man has been indicted for the crime by a state grand jury.

Get our free mobile app

Acting New Jersey Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck says Shawn P. Applewhite, 25, of Marlton has been charged for the incident that happened at Bally's Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City for "allegedly threatening a casino patron with a box cutter during a robbery attempt."

Applewhite has been charged with 1st degree Robbery and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose - a 3rd degree charge.

According to Bruck:

"On December 23, 2020, at approximately 7:35 p.m., Applewhite allegedly attempted to rob the victim by placing a box cutter to the victim’s neck and demanding the victim’s money and jewelry. Applewhite allegedly approached the victim from behind as he was seated at a slot machine. The victim stood up and engaged in a physical altercation with Applewhite. A bystander also attempted to intervene, and Applewhite allegedly fled without taking any property. Applewhite was apprehended by a Bally’s security supervisor and security officer as he attempted to exit the casino."

Bruck says the robbery charge has a possible 10-20 year sentence and a fine up to $150,000. The weapons charge has a possible Three to five year sentence, and a fine up to $15,000.

Bruck commended "the detectives of the New Jersey State Police Casino Gaming Bureau for their investigation, as well as the security staff at Bally’s who apprehended Applewhite."

SOURCE: New Jersey State Attorney General's Office.